Effects of poor lifestyle choices on the cardiovascular system

Excessive alcohol intake Cardiomyopathy. Alcohol has a toxic affect on the heart muscle causing it to become damaged. This can lead to heart failure and death. High blood pressure (hypertension). Puts excessive strain on the heart and blood vessels. Increase in the amount of fat circulating in the blood stream. Can lead to blockage of blood vessels. Increased risk of diabetes which can impact the cardiovascular system. Increases the risk of stroke (blockage of arteries supplying the brain). Arrhythmia. Alcohol can cause abnormal heart rhythms by effecting the hearts electrical system. Various other problems: liver disease, psychiatric disorders, depression, stomach ulcers, throat and mouth cancer. Change4life

Smoking Atherosclerosis. Smoking decreases the amount of ‘good’ cholesterol levels (HDL) causing plaque to build up and harden in arteries, narrowing them. This limits the flow of blood around the body. This can lead to coronary heart disease which can cause heart attack and death. It also increases the risk of a stroke. Carbon monoxide and other gases in cigarette smoke effect the diffusion of oxygen into the bloodstream. This means the heart must work harder to get O2 around the body. Nicotine stimulates production of adrenaline, causing the heart to work harder and raising blood pressure. Reduction in cardiac output due to damage to the heart. Bronchitis and other respiratory problems.

Sedentary Lifestyle Increases risk of diabetes Increases blood pressure which can lead to blood vessel damage Increases risk of cardiovascular disease Increased risk of stroke Increased cholesterol levels Increased risk of various cancers. Change4life What are the reasons for an increase in sedentary lifestyles among the present population? How can we ensure that we avoid a sedentary lifestyle?

Unhealthy Diet High levels of body fat increase the risk of coronary artery disease, heart attack and coronary death. Diets high in saturated fat (animal fats) and trans fat (found in fast food) lead to high ‘bad’ cholesterol levels (LDL) which leads to atherosclerosis. (unsaturated fats found in nuts, fish, seeds and vegetables are beneficial to the heart) Sodium (salt). Linked to high blood pressure and a major cause of cardiovascular disease. Low fruit and vegetable intake accounts for 20% of cardiovascular disease worldwide (due to missing out on the beneficial vitamins and minerals which they contain) Wholegrain foods are also said to be beneficial for the cardiovascular system. Change4life The heart attack grill

Summary The key effects of an unhealthy lifestyle on the cardiovascular system: Blocking of blood vessels Stiffening of blood vessels Reduction in blood flow Increase in blood pressure/ hypertension Increase in heart rate Increase in stroke volume Heart has to contract more forcefully to do the same work/ is put under increased strain Can lead to stroke/ heart attack or other CV diseases Formation of blood clots/ Thrombosis